You know all those taxidermied bats on @Etsy that are listed as “ethically sourced”? Yeah, that’s bullshit. Here are two red flags, using “World of Wonders Deco” as an example. https://t.co/vbORD8srpL
🚩 there are multiple specimens per listing that are identically and pristinely preserved.
🚩 they do not work with zoos, sanctuaries, or rehabbers, who are the only possible source of ethical specimens (other than chance findings by individuals, which would prohibit multiple identical listings).
🚩 bats do not die after mating. The oldest bat on record was 41 years old. Kuhl’s pipistrelles, the first species listed on this store, averages a lifespan of 8 years or longer.
Etsy and other similar companies enable the mass killing of wild bats for the sake of decoration. Most buyers don’t know any better, and take “ethically sourced” at face value.
PLEASE do not buy bat taxidermy. PLEASE tell others not to buy taxidermy. PLEASE call out these sellers and the companies that host them.